KUALA LUMPUR: Three major Japanese electronics firms—Sony, Panasonic, and Daikin—are looking into allegations of delayed salary payments and forced labour practices involving a supplier in Malaysia.
Previously, it was reported that hundreds of Bangladeshi workers had not received their salaries since April, had their passports withheld and were required to work 12-hour shifts without pay.
In response, the three companies confirmed that the company involved, Kawaguchi Manufacturing Sdn Bhd pledged to take appropriate actions to protect the workers' interests.
Daikin Industries Ltd (DIL) human rights promotion officer Tamotsu Namiki said that the company is still making purchases from Kawaguchi and has not decided whether to terminate those purchases.
"Daikin Industries Ltd global head office understands that by terminating purchases, we may create another human rights violation because those workers may be laid off due to the decrease of Kawaguchi's sales.
"Daikin Malaysia (DAMA) visited Kawaguchi's premises on Sept 4 and 6 to discuss the situation with Kawaguchi, and Dama received a written statement, in which Kawaguchi committed to pay the salaries on schedule.
"DAMA and DIL have been continuously monitoring whether such commitments are being kept," it said.
Meanwhile, Sony Group Corporation senior general manager Mitsu Shippee said the company works collaboratively with governments, industries and other stakeholders to thoroughly review the situation and find appropriate solutions.
"We conduct regular assessments and work with the suppliers to ensure compliance with the code including human rights at the production sites.
"In the event that a supplier is confirmed to have a major violation of the code, such as use of forced labour, Sony will take appropriate countermeasures including a request for implementing corrective actions and termination of business," it said.
Panasonic Holdings Corporation is currently investigating the issue and will determine necessary actions based on its findings, in collaboration with relevant authorities and stakeholders.
"This includes requesting Kawaguchi to take corrective actions safeguarding the interests of the impacted workers," it said.